The biggest problem here is how to dissect the beautifully sculpted towers of food without it landing on your lap. The answer is to dive in. As good as it looks, this place has been serving up skyscrapers of innovative cuisine since the mid-1980s. With an interesting menu, great service and a wonderful atmosphere, this restaurant remains at the top of its game.

This bar is known first and foremost as a literary haunt. Authors both established and aspiring congregate here en masse. There are many official readings by big names. There are many informal debates regarding the readers with big names.

A New York tradition since the beginning of time, McSorley's is renowned for brewing its own beer. There are two varieties to choose from, light and dark. That's it. Some say this place is crowded simply because it always has been. Others swear it's a down-right requirement to drop in every now and again. Whatever your take on the subject, McSorley's is sure to leave its mark.

A classy Irish pub clothed in dark wood and brass, this is the perfect spot to sip a pint. There are several dozen kinds of beer on tap with even more varieties available by the bottle. The scotch selection is equally as vast. A mellow atmosphere except on weekends.

Possibly the most famous Jazz club in existence, the Blue Note has a history of hosting legendary Jazz greats like Louis Armstrong and Miles Davis (and, of course, Woody Allen). There are, in fact, Blue Notes throughout this country as well as internationally. The New York location, however, remains a living tribute to jazz.

This Jazz club has been around since 1935. Among those who have graced the halls are John Coltrane, Sonny Rollins, Bill Evans and Dexter Gordon, many making live recordings here as well. And the tradition continues with a line up of some of the greatest names in jazz and regular performances by the Vanguard Jazz Orchestra.